After 34 years of loyal service, the iconic BRIT Awards trophy was in need of a new image, so organisers of the UK's biggest music awards ceremony decided to create a new "blank canvas" trophy, which could be restyled each year by leading British creative individuals.

First to take up the challenge is legendary fashion designer, punk provocateur, eco-warrior, and national treasure; Dame Vivienne Westwood. Who better to capture the spirit of rebellion the BRITs are famed for than the original anarchist and thoroughly British eccentric?

"Vivienne stands for all the things we want to inspire in tomorrow's generation of artists," BRITs Chairman David Joseph said. "She continues to be unique, innovative, not to mention massively inspired by music and vice versa. We are honoured she accepted our offer of designing 2011's trophy."

Westwood has been busy channeling her rebellious energy into peaceful causes over the last few years. Speaking out against the "drug of consumerism", she's been on a one-woman mission to halt the progress of climate change, which explains why the latest incarnation of Britannia sees her draped in a very stylish Union Jack print toga-dress, emblazoned with the slogan, "Stop! Climate change".

Known for her frank honesty, Westwood is upfront about her mission to utilise any opportunity her fame presents to promote her cause, and what better way to target potential new supporters than through such a high profile show televised to millions?

No word yet on who's up next year but, like everything Vivienne Westwood turns her hand to, she'll be a tough act to follow.

The BRIT Awards will be held at its new home, The O2 in London on Tuesday 15th February and will be broadcast live on ITV1.